A quiet Arizona neighborhood is now the focus of a troubling mystery after the sudden disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of “Today” show anchor Savannah Guthrie.
Days before Nancy went missing, neighbors say a suspicious white van had been parked nearby - with no explanation.
Neighbor Recalls Seeing Suspicious Van Near Guthrie Home
Brett McIntire, who lives just across the street from Nancy, told The New York Post he noticed something off in the days leading up to her disappearance. A white, full-sized van with no markings caught his eye.
“It was somewhere on that street. It was a white van, full-sized, with no printing on the sides. It was parked on the street,” said McIntire.
The 72-year-old noted that the lack of any signage on the vehicle immediately raised red flags.
“Normally people that are coming to work on your home will have a company vehicle or if they’re independent something written on it.”
Following the incident, McIntire says he’s become more vigilant in his everyday life.
“From now on when I’m going out and about I’ll have a paper and pen and record anything unusual.”
Residents on Edge: “We’re a Little Concerned”
His wife, Lisa McIntire, echoed the unease. Despite their belief that their home is well-protected, the incident has them reevaluating their security setup.
“Brett and I were talking. And we thought well, we should probably get one," she said.
She was referring to installing a security camera system - something they hadn't considered before.
“We’ve have a pretty secure residence. Metal doors. I’m kind of a deep sleeper, so it’s unlikely someone could get past one of the metal doors. But we’re a little concerned.”
Though the couple couldn’t pinpoint the exact date they spotted the van, Brett confirmed he reported it to local authorities.
Police Launch Criminal Investigation
Nancy Guthrie was officially reported missing on Sunday. Just one day later, the case was escalated to a criminal investigation. At a press conference Thursday, Pima County Sheriff’s officials told reporters they remained hopeful.
They said they believe Nancy is “still out there” and emphasized their commitment to bringing her home.
In a disturbing twist, a ransom note was reportedly sent to both local and national media outlets. However, law enforcement noted that the letter lacked any proof of life or a channel for communication with the suspect—frustrating their efforts to follow up.
On Wednesday, Savannah Guthrie and her siblings issued an emotional video message, appealing directly to whoever may have taken their mother.
“We need to know, without a doubt, that she is alive, and that you have her. We want to hear from you, and we are ready to listen. Please, reach out to us,” Savannah said in the statement.